Eric Mele enters his first season with the Bulldog football program in 2007. He will assist with Wingate’s defensive backs and special team efforts. In 2006, Mele was the wide receivers coach at Saint Peter’s (N.J.) College.

While at Saint Peter’s, Mele helped coordinate the number 11 passing offense in NCAA Division I-AA. In addition, he coached the number three-ranked wide receiver in receptions per game (7.4 catches per game). Mele tutored two All-MAAC selections as well.                     

 In 2005, Mele was the co-defensive coordinator and special teams coordinator at Marist High School in Bayonne, N.J. He helped the team reach the state playoffs for the first time in twelve years. The defense allowed only 13 points per game.

Mele began his coaching career at William Paterson (N.J.) University. He started as outside linebackers coach at WPU. Later, Mele became the special teams coordinator/defensive backs coach. He mentored the number 13 kick returner in NCAA Division III during the 2004 season. Also, Mele coached three All-NJAC choices in two years.

 A graduate of WPU, Mele served as a captain of the Pioneers his senior year. He was a three-year starter at strong safety and outside linebacker. Mele earned his bachelor’s degree in Sociology/Criminal Justice from WPU in 2002. He completed a Masters degree in Sports Management from the American Military University in 2007.

As a high school student-athlete, Mele won a Class B state football championship at Wardlaw-Hartridge Prep (Edison, N.J.). He was a first team All-Conference and All-County selection. Eric Mele resides in Wesley Chapel, N.C. with his wife Melissa.